Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically manifests before age 3, but the specific time varies among individuals. If a child exhibits symptoms of autism, it is recommended that parents promptly take them to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a subtype of pervasive developmental disorder, mainly manifesting as varying degrees of social interaction difficulties, language development disorders, narrow interests, and stereotyped behaviors. The symptoms of most affected children appear before age 3, and some may exhibit symptoms around age 2. If parents notice these symptoms in their children, they should take them seriously, promptly take them to the hospital for diagnosis, and undergo targeted treatment as prescribed by the doctor. Clinically, the treatment of autism mainly includes psychological therapy, educational intervention, and medication. Psychological therapy primarily aims to improve the child's symptoms through behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other methods. Educational intervention focuses on specialized education and rehabilitation training for the child. Additionally, if the child also experiences symptoms such as anxiety or depression, they can be prescribed anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication under the guidance of a doctor. Since autism is a lifelong condition, it is recommended that parents provide their children with constant care, patience, and guidance to help them gradually integrate into society.
